Refereeing can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience. Not only do referees play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the game, but they also gain a variety of benefits from their involvement in the sport. From staying active and healthy, learning the rules of the game, developing leadership and decision-making skills, making a positive impact, connecting with others, traveling and seeing new places, learning from experienced referees, getting paid for doing something you love, improving communication skills, and giving back to the community. All referees in Canada would start with their club and could progress all the way through the game.
Love for the game
Your desire for the game and to be a key part of it should always start here. You have to really love the game and appreciate what it takes for an athlete to be good at it. Every sport requires a unique set of skills and talents to excel. For one sport it may be size and strength; for another speed and quickness; still another may reward unique coordination and technique. Whatever the case, your love for the game must always come first.
Respect for the players
The game is for the players. They gain the most from a game which is officiated fairly and within the rules. When every player has an equal chance to compete and be rewarded for their efforts, the referee has done their job well. We owe it to the players to do our best, every game and respect not just for the players, but also or coaches, parents, and spectators.
Give back to the community
Referees play an important role in the community by helping to ensure that soccer games are played in a safe and fair manner. By becoming a referee, you will be able to give back to your community and make a positive impact on the sport. It’s one of the most honorable things a referee can do, and it is always greatly appreciated. Not to mention the sense of personal satisfaction you can get from referring a well-contested, fair, and enjoyable match.
Chance to stay involved
Most referees played their sport at some time. Some probably still do, but perhaps not as competitively. Being a referee keeps you involved. It puts you right back into the action and gives you a part in the game that you’ll never get as a spectator. It’s not the same thrill as playing, but some would say it is probably the next best thing.
Keep fit and healthy
By officiating games, referees are able to stay in shape and promote a healthy lifestyle. To be a top-notch referee means getting into condition and staying that way throughout the season. It’s the price you pay, but in the long run it is the only way to do the job right. What better way to stay in shape and get a great view of the game?
Learn the Laws of the Game
By becoming a referee, you will gain a deep understanding of the laws of the game. This knowledge can be beneficial for your own understanding of soccer, as well as for coaching, playing, or even just watching the game as a fan. By enforcing the rules, referees help to ensure that the game is played in a fair and safe manner. This can be a rewarding experience, knowing that you are making a positive impact on the sport.
Connect with others
As a referee, you will have the opportunity to connect with other referees, coaches, players, and fans. This can be a great way to make new friends and expand your social circle. Also, there is a friendship between referees that is hard to find elsewhere. During any match, the players are supported by coaches and fans. Referees have only each other. This reliance, the working together as a team, creates a unique bond that goes well beyond the game itself. When you become a referee, you’ll know exactly what this means.
Challenge yourself
Refereeing is a challenge. From passing the exam… to advancing to higher levels… to getting the best assignments… to doing a good job under pressure in a big game. These are all challenges for every referee. And when these goals are met, it creates a great deal of satisfaction and pride.
Personal development
Refereeing teaches independent thinking and the ability to see the big picture, a skill that translates outside of officiating. It also requires dedication, togetherness, and ability to work as a team. As a referee, you are responsible for making important decisions on the field. This experience can help to develop your leadership and decision-making skills, which can be valuable in other areas of your life.
Earn money
When you become a referee, you will have the opportunity to earn money, while gaining important employability skills which will look great on your resume. This can be a great way to turn your passion for the sport into a career. When you consider all the benefits listed above, becoming a referee is as rewarding a vocation as you may find.